Almost half of the adult population (47%) have had their employment situation affected by COVID-19, new CSO statistics confirm.

Of these, 14% have lost employment and 33% have been temporarily laid off.  Loss of employment is at equal levels for males and females (both 14%).

More younger people have been affected – in all, 6% of 15 to 24-year-olds have been temporarily laid off, and over one-fifth (22%) have experienced loss of employment. 

Increased contact

But the crisis has also seen an increase in positive family time, cited by 46% of the population, and the figures note increased contact with family members via telephone, Skype or FaceTime.

However, emotional wellbeing has been affected in the adult population, with 17% being worried about money, 24% feeling lonely, and 26% afraid to go shopping.

Older people aged 65 years and over are the most afraid to go shopping (41%) and feelings of loneliness are also highest in this cohort.  

Remote working

And 34% of adults have started remote working from home, while 12% have increased their number of hours working from home.

Almost one-quarter (23%) have seen a change in their working hours.

Just 20% were unable to work remotely as their work was not suitable for this format.

Those aged 35-44 years were most likely to switch to remote working as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic. However, this cohort was also most likely to experience difficulties in working from home with their family around.

Difficulties

Difficulties decline as the age groups get older. ‘No paid work’ is the lowest concern for the older age group (65+) as only 5% of this age group is affected. 

And almost a quarter (24%) of 35 to 44-years-olds have childcare issues.

Of those who have lost their employment, were temporarily laid off, or are on leave (paid or unpaid), 94% expect to return to the same job, the figures show.

Almost one-quarter of the adult population is feeling lonely, with older and younger people feeling this the most.